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Now I've Had the Baby... Help!

Postpartum Depression

By Linda Jenkins, RN, Childbirth Educator

P>Not only do the first weeks revolve around that adorable cooing bundle of joy, they revolve around mountains of dirty baby clothes, messy, expensive diapers, possibly bottles, or leaking breasts, and fussy periods for baby and parents. There is exhaustion, tension, jealousy, and probably some feelings of utter panic.

While the postpartum period does not spell disaster for all, it may not be a bed of roses, either. Somewhere in between there is a happy medium. Unaccountable depression and a feeling of inadequacy are common. Parenthood is certainly not instant bliss in the form of a newly delivered baby. "Motherly love" may not well up just because you have had a baby. Whatever your feelings, discuss them, be honest, and try to make the situation as positive as possible for all concerned.

Postpartum depression is a real issue with many women. There are probably a great number of contributing causes. Fatigue is often the largest. Make sure each day has adequate rest periods set aside for you. Forget that solid eight hours a night for a while. It may have already stopped before the birth. It is even more important now to rest whenever there is a chance. During those first few weeks when the baby sleeps, you sleep, even if it is only once during the day. Take the phone off the hook and enjoy the total silence. Put a simple "mother and baby sleeping" sign on the door.

Hormonal and chemical changes can also be factors contributing to postpartum depression. These will often come in balance again with time and rest. Sometimes hormonal and/or chemical therapy for a short time will be helpful. The emotional let down of no longer anticipating "the day" with new maternity clothes, showers and gifts might also play a part. Pregnancy is often spent worrying about how you are going to cope with labor and delivery. It is often difficult to envision a baby as part of your life. Now you are the mother of an infant who demands your attention on a 24-hour a day basis. Perhaps you are not certain about feedings. Maybe you feel guilty about resenting being tied down to someone else's demands, even when it is your own child. Does your partner seem just a little jealous of that small bundle of demands, too? The time that used to be for two is now often interrupted or totally non-existent. You may feel discouraged, anxious, weepy, and in some cases, downright hysterical.

Talking to a supportive, understanding person is often invaluable. If these feelings of depression are excessive and not alleviated with rest, an understanding shoulder to cry on, a call to your childbirth educator or a lactation consultant then phone your doctor.

Want to see more?

• Prenatal/Postpartum Depression board
• PPD Support, advice and a mailing list from moms who have been there
• PPD Contacts throughout the US
• Westcoast Motherhood Adjustment Services
• Women's Health Connection
• Postpartum Education for Parents

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